Tourism’s Growing Role in Community Development

Across Alberta — and really across the country — municipalities are facing a familiar challenge: how do communities grow, attract investment, and create opportunity in an increasingly competitive environment? For many municipalities, the answer is no longer just about traditional industry or infrastructure. More communities are looking at tourism not simply as a visitor experience, but as a serious economic driver — one that supports local businesses, creates jobs, attracts new residents, and helps communities tell their story to the world. From major events and cultural attractions to sports tourism, outdoor recreation, and culinary experiences, municipalities are recognizing that tourism development can play a critical role in economic diversification and long-term community growth. But with those opportunities also come important questions. How do communities invest strategically? What role should local government play? And how can municipalities balance growth, sustainability, and quality of life for residents? To discuss all of that and much more, we’re joined by Greg Robinson. Greg has led municipalities as CAO and organizations as Chair and Interim CAO. This is Municipal Affairs. ----- Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026